Is there a platinum Intrauterine Device (IUD)?

From the Guidelines

Yes, there is a platinum IUD available called ParaGard, which is a copper IUD that contains a small amount of platinum to enhance its durability and effectiveness. ParaGard is a non-hormonal intrauterine device made primarily of plastic wrapped with copper wire, with platinum added to strengthen the copper wire. This IUD provides highly effective contraception for up to 10-12 years after insertion, as supported by studies such as 1. Unlike hormonal IUDs, ParaGard works by creating a sperm-toxic environment in the uterus due to the copper component, while the platinum helps prevent corrosion and maintains the structural integrity of the device. The platinum content is minimal and serves an engineering purpose rather than a medical one.

Key Points

• ParaGard is an excellent option for women seeking long-term, non-hormonal contraception with an effectiveness rate of over 99%, as noted in 1 and 1.
• The insertion procedure is quick, typically taking only a few minutes in a healthcare provider's office, though some women may experience cramping during and after placement.
• IUDs, including ParaGard, are considered safe for nulliparous adolescents and do not cause tubal infertility in nulliparous women, as stated in 1 and 1.
• The use of an IUD in the context of HIV infection is classified according to CDC US medical eligibility criteria for contraceptive use as category 2, meaning that HIV is a condition for which the advantages of using the IUD generally outweigh theoretical or proven risks, as mentioned in 1.

Considerations

• Some women may experience heavier menstrual cycles with more cramping initially with the copper IUD, but this typically improves over time.
• Individuals with painful menses may have significant improvement of their symptoms with the levonorgestrel IUD, as noted in 1.
• HIV infection is not a contraindication to IUD use, but the use of an IUD by an individual with advanced HIV disease is classified as category 3, meaning that risks generally outweigh benefits, as stated in 1.

From the Research

Types of IUDs

• The available studies do not mention a platinum IUD, but they do discuss the following types of IUDs:
  • Copper IUD (e.g. Paragard Copper T380A) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
  • Levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs (LNG-IUDs) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Characteristics of IUDs

• Copper IUDs work predominantly by prefertilization mechanisms and may cause increased menstrual bleeding 2
• Levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs also work by prefertilization mechanisms and may cause side effects such as headaches, nausea, and breast tenderness 2
• IUDs are safe and effective methods of contraception, with a failure rate of less than 1% 3

Use of IUDs

• IUDs can be used in adolescents, nulliparous women, and women who are breastfeeding 2, 3, 4
• IUDs may be used in women who have a history of sexually transmitted infection, although screening is recommended 2
• IUDs can be used for emergency contraception, with the copper IUD being the most effective option 5, 6